Calvin James Redburn

Calvin James Redburn, 83, passed away Jan. 7, 2004, surrounded by his family. Born on Nov. 5, 1920, in Independence, Kan., he was the son of the late Edward James Redburn and the late Clara Cooper Redburn. He was preceded in death by his brother, Bob Redburn, and by his sister, Wanda Benskin.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Raphael Green Redburn, of Winston-Salem, N.C.; four children, Chris Redburn and wife Nancy, of Wilmington, N.C., David Redburn and wife Deb Hardy of Greenville, S.C., Jenny Mikell and husband Lawton of Raleigh, N.C., Raynel Schmieding and husband David of Charlotte, N.C.; five grandchildren, Michael Redburn, Daniel Redburn, Jeffrey Mikell, Melissa Mikell and Jenna Schmieding; three brothers, Marvin Redburn and wife Barb, Bill Redburn and wife JoAnn, J.D. Redburn and wife JoAnn; four sisters, Verna Hughes and husband Glen, Anna Mae Benskin and husband Bud, Millie Jacobs and husband Vic, Evelyn Watkins; and a host of nieces and nephews.

Captain Redburn was a pilot with Piedmont Airlines for 27 years. He started his career as a co-pilot in 1953. In 1962, he became a captain. He retired in 1980 on his birthday. He attributed his accident-free flying career with having a guardian angel on his shoulder.

Captain Redburn served in the U.S. Navy as a Radioman 2nd Class on the U.S.S. Halford, a destroyer that operated all over the Pacific Ocean during World War II. He maintained a life-long interest in ham radios, building several of his own radios and enjoying contacts around the world.

Captain Redburn was an avid golfer since 1953. He played at many golf courses around the country, winning numerous trophies. During his illness he missed playing with his buddies at Wilshire Golf Course.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to friends and family, Dr. Todd Smith, Dr. Richard Brodkin, Dr. Stephen Leighton, the staff, especially Anna Scott, R.N., and Simone Worthy, of Hospice and Palliative CareCenter of Winston-Salem for their love, care, support and prayers.

There will be a celebration of his life on Jan. 24, at 4:30 p.m., at the Unitarian Universalist Church, 4055 Robinhood Road, Winston-Salem, NC 27106. Family and friends are encouraged to share a story about Cal, and to stay for refreshments.

A funeral mass will be said at the St. Clare of Assisi Catholic Church in Surprise, Ariz.

Contributions may be made to Hospice and Palliative CareCenter of Winston-Salem, 1100-C South Stratford Road, Winston-Salem, NC 27101.